Real Madrid News
Real Madrid star faces fresh criticism after Australia friendly: ‘Forgotten how to play football’
Vinicius Jr.’s difficult period at Real Madrid has taken another turn, with a moment from Brazil’s 1-1 friendly draw against Australia becoming the latest talking point surrounding the forward.
The Brazilian is already under pressure over his performances, and one incident from Friday’s match quickly spread across social media.
Rather than easing the scrutiny around Vinicius, the sequence gave his critics another reason to question the winger’s current level.
Vinicius moment against Australia goes viral
Brazil were unable to claim victory against Australia despite Vinicius featuring in the friendly, with Carlo Ancelotti’s side settling for a 1-1 draw.
The result itself attracted attention, but a particular play involving Vinicius generated even more discussion online.
O que aconteceu com o Vini Jr?
— njdeprê – marlon (@njdmarlon) September 25, 2026
em qualquer momento ele virou isso pic.twitter.com/wwES96UauF
Social media users quickly turned the moment into a source of ridicule, adding to the growing criticism surrounding the Real Madrid forward.
Some of the reactions were particularly harsh, with users writing: “Vinicius has forgotten how to play football.”
“Vinicius has forgotten how to play football,” or “Vinicius is frighteningly good after renewing his contract.”
Another incident from the first half also became the subject of mockery, further extending the online reaction to Vinicius’ performance.
Real Madrid forward facing growing scrutiny
Asusta al miedo como está Vinicius después de renovar. pic.twitter.com/oV7S8PwfhK
— Peski (@PeskiCensored) September 25, 2026
The concern for Vinicius is that his form at Real Madrid has come under increasing examination, while the reception he has received from fans has added more tension to the situation.
The forward has faced boos during matches, including from sections of the Real Madrid support.
That makes the current period particularly uncomfortable for a player who remains an important part of the club’s attacking plans.
His contract situation also makes the scrutiny notable, as Vinicius renewed his Real Madrid deal on August 6, extending his stay at the club until 2032.
Vinicius has plenty of time to change the story
🚨 𝗦𝗧𝗔𝗧: Vinicius Jr vs Australia:
— The Touchline | 𝐓 (@TouchlineX) September 25, 2026
• 0 goals
• 0 assists
• 0 crosses
• 0 dribbles
• 0 defensive contributions
• 0/1 aerial duels won
• 1/2 ground duels won
• 3 key passes pic.twitter.com/oexMZxBM0j
The length of that agreement means there is no immediate question over his contractual future, but the more pressing issue is his football.
One friendly performance should not define a player of Vinicius’ standing, and social media reactions can often magnify individual mistakes.
Yet the criticism is difficult to ignore when it comes alongside a long run of disappointing performances and increasingly hostile reactions from supporters.
For Vinicius, the most effective response remains on the pitch. A sustained return to his best level would do far more to change the conversation than any defence made away from the field.
Real Madrid News
Mourinho considering starting 23-year-old Real Madrid ace against Villarreal – report
After impressing during the international break, Eduardo Camavinga has a major opportunity to establish himself in Real Madrid’s midfield rotation.
Indeed, according to Defensa Central, Jose Mourinho is considering starting the Frenchman against Villarreal, with injuries and doubts over several players limiting his options.
Real Madrid cannot afford to drop points against Villarreal if they want to remain in the title race. However, Mourinho has issues to deal with in the squad, which could lead him to turn to Camavinga for a crucial role.
Camavinga could replace Tchouameni in midfield
The 23-year-old star could line up as the defensive midfielder in the double pivot, with Bernardo Silva or Arda Guler alongside him, and will be tasked with providing balance in midfield.
Real Madrid face Villarreal with several problems in central defence. Ibrahima Konate is expected to be a late call, leading Mourinho to consider moving Aurelien Tchouameni into defence alongside Antonio Rudiger.
Meanwhile, Federico Valverde could also struggle to be ready after the ankle injury he sustained in the derby before the international break.
The Uruguayan has continued to work individually away from the group and might return to group training tomorrow. Even then, his readiness to start remains in question.
That would leave a place open in midfield, with Camavinga in line to fill in.
Camavinga impressed during the international break
Camavinga has started only one match this season, the defeat against Real Betis.
Despite his limited opportunities, Mourinho is keen to bring the Frenchman back into the fold after he impressed for France during the international break.
Zinedine Zidane called the Real Madrid star up for his first France squad, and the midfielder performed well during the break.
That has given Mourinho and Real Madrid reason to be optimistic about using him against Villarreal, with the hope that he can move closer to the level he showed after first arriving at the club.
Therefore, the Villarreal match could represent an important test for Camavinga and a chance for the Frenchman to show that he can provide the balance Real Madrid need in midfield.
